Mod Branch #1 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Mod Branch #1 Dam, located in McDowell, West Virginia, is a significant earth dam completed in 1976 with a primary purpose of "Other." Owned by the local government, this dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a storage capacity of 41 acre-feet, serving as a vital structure on the Mod Branch of Tug Fork River.
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Summary
Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment remains "Not Rated," and its hazard potential is listed as "Undetermined."
With a length of 221 feet and a normal storage capacity of 3 acre-feet, Mod Branch #1 Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control in the region. Although the dam lacks certain regulatory designations and inspections, it continues to serve its purpose effectively. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in 1995, indicating a commitment to maintaining safety protocols for the surrounding community.
The dam's location in Hemphill, West Virginia, underscores its importance in maintaining water security and climate resilience in the area. As a key infrastructure owned by the local government, Mod Branch #1 Dam stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to manage and protect water resources in McDowell County. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam represents a focal point for understanding the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and community safety.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
221 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
MOD BRANCH OF TUG FK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
40 |
Nid Storage |
41 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
40 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tug Fork At Welch
|
90cfs |
Dry Fork At Beartown
|
59cfs |
Guyandotte River Near Baileysville
|
165cfs |
Clear Fork At Clear Fork
|
64cfs |
Panther Creek Near Panther
|
9cfs |
Bluestone River At Falls Mills
|
31cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Mod Branch #1 Dam